Ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis caused by foreign body: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE: Foreign bodies related ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis is rare and usually cause numerous problems for clinical physicians. PATIENT CONCERNS: We report a 36-year-old female who was referred to our hospital due to a 4-year history of dull pain on the left back. DIAGNOSIS: X-ray and abdominal CT revealed a foreign body around the upper part of the left ureter with ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis. INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopy was performed and a 3-cm sewing needle was removed successfully. OUTCOMES: After 6 months’ follow-up, the patient's ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis were significantly reduced, and the double-J ureteral stent was removed. LESSONS: This case indicated that ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis caused by foreign bodies needed to be early diagnosed and located. Invasive therapies rather than conservative treatments are preferred to remove the FBs and relieve obstruction.